An important thing to know about hanging shelves and pictures safely is to take the time to do the job correctly. Properly installed shelves can last for years, however, a hastily done job might make your shelves both ugly and dangerous. Before beginning the job, you need to know where you want to place the shelves or pictures. Next, you need to gather the proper tools and materials.
Most homes today have drywall for their interior walls. Drywall is not strong enough to hold heavy objects. To hang shelves and large pictures, you will need to anchor them to the wooden studs in your walls. To find them, you will need a stud finder. Place shelf supports and picture hangers on wooden studs to keep the shelves and pictures from falling. This will prevent potential wall and floor damage as well as lessen the risk of injuring someone.
This time, you may plan out the placement of your shelves and pictures. Use a measuring tape, pencil, and a level to ensure that your installation will result in proper placement. It is very important to use proper safety precautions when hanging shelves at a height that would require a ladder. Ladders alone injure more people than any other household accident.
For pictures, the height at which you hang your pictures is critical. If not done correctly, the result might look out of balance or unprofessional. As a general rule, the center of a framed picture should be located approximately 57 inches above the floor (this is eye level for the average person). Before proceeding to the next step, measure and mark the placement of each picture carefully.
Next, you have to determine what type of screws, anchors, and brackets you will need to support the item’s weight. For shelves, be sure to include the weight of the objects that will be stored there. You may overestimate the weight, just to be safe. You will likely need a drill driver or other power tool to place screws, anchors, and brackets in the studs and walls.
Always educate yourself on the proper use of your drill driver before attempting to use it for the first time. Hanging shelves or pictures on a brick or concrete wall will require a masonry bit and plastic anchors to install the screws required to hold the shelf or picture in place. Consider having someone around to help lift and steady things when you’re ready to install the shelf or picture. Asking for a friend’s opinion on your placement and measurements never hurts, either.
If screws, drills, and power tools are not your kind of thing, you still have options. Pictures can also be secured to the walls by other methods such as double-sided adhesives. Remember, some adhesives may be permanent or removable. It is best to choose one that suits your needs.
By taking a few precautions and choosing the right tools, you can start hanging shelves and pictures on the walls of your Culver City rental home in no time.
Need a new rental home to hang your art? Check out our current selection of rental listings and call Real Property Management Choice at 310-928-9728 to speak with one of our Culver City property managers today.